Evotec and C4XD Enter Collaboration
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Evotec AG has announced a research collaboration with C4X Discovery Holdings plc ("C4XD") to optimize Orexin-1 selective inhibitors discovered through C4XD's unique NMR technology. Evotec will apply its drug discovery platform with C4XD to further develop several series of Orexin-1 selective inhibitors.
Activation of the orexin-1 receptor in the brain is associated with stress-related addictive disorders (e.g. for alcohol, nicotine, cocaine and opiates), while the activation of the orexin-2 receptor is associated with biorhythms and wakefulness.
Identification and development of selective compounds that inhibit the orexin-1 pathway thus should provide treatments for addiction avoiding the sedative effects associated with inhibition of orexin-2.
"We are delighted to work with C4XD on this strategic collaboration. C4XD has an exciting technology that can really revolutionize how rational drug design is conducted, particularly on targets like Orexin where the conformation of drug-like ligands is particular important to on-target potency. With Evotec's complementary expertise in computational chemistry, medicinal chemistry and pharmacology we look forward to help drive C4XD's objective to develop compounds to treat addictive disorders", said Dr Mario Polywka, Chief Operating Officer of Evotec.
"Through this collaboration with Evotec, we expect our novel biological discoveries and medical insights will be effectively and efficiently progressed into a state-of-the-art drug discovery and development programme. The collaboration is already demonstrating the benefit of an alliance in accelerating drug discovery projects", said Piers Morgan, CEO of C4XD.
